Posted on 09/26/2011 10:21:21 PM PDT by Borough Park
(Reuters) - When it comes to getting fit a person's best friend just might be a four-legged one.
Experts say studies show dog owners walk more, walk faster, and are more likely to enjoy an active lifestyle because of their companion animal.
"I'm fascinated by what a great motivator dogs can be," said Dr. Sandra McCune, co-editor of the book, "The Health Benefits of Dog Walking for People and Pets."
McCune, an animal behaviorist based in Leicestershire, England, said studies show if you're a dog walker, you're more likely to meet the guidelines for daily activities.
Dogs are the reason behind two-thirds, 66 percent, of the walks their owners take each week, according to a recent survey of more than 1,011 adults commissioned by pet food company Mars Petcare.
One-quarter of people with children and pets regularly visit parks and other outdoor spaces because of their dog.
"Personally, I have a Labrador," McCune said. "When it's dark, when it's raining, the dog needs a walk, every day."
(Excerpt) Read more at reuters.com ...
But not cat walkers???
Cats are useless for exercise. There’s a reason why cats are the favored pet of crazy old women and urban homosexuals.
Ever chase a cat around a farm?
I just got a Lab puppy who keeps me running, poor guy thinks his name is "NO-NO!"
I just got a Lab puppy who keeps me running, poor guy thinks his name is “NO-NO!”
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Hahaha! Does [s]he keep you up at night, too? Shoot, when I decided to get a puppy again, it literally reminded me of the up and down sleep of having kiddo!
Oh, and Boxers rule! neener! :p
Over the years my 14 year old lab and I have walked/hiked thousands of miles together. In the past year she developed problems and could barely walk a mile. We both gained weight.
Two weeks ago I got a 1 1 /2 year old cattle dog. Boy, did my old lab pick up her pace! She still isn’t too keen on the young cattle dog, but she’s walking and smiling again! And so am I.
It’s a good thing that poodles can’t be embarrassed. Poodles are hunting dogs. My tomcat just thinks they are puddles.
"A walk?! How 'bout you take a hike, big guy..."
That dog looked as natural as John Kerry at a town hall meeting.
my 3 year old cat loves to sprint up and down the hallways full speed (while being chased) when she isn’t napping. She keeps me fit :-)
Not a good reason to get a dog, though it is one of the benefits. Dog ownership is a big responsibility.
Unfortunately, people have become so flaky that they abandon their dogs when they realize how much work they are.
No kidding....travel becomes a major project when there is a dog in the house.
Yep. You have my permission...you KNOW you wanna post her.
Heck, link the pic..just cuz you can.
Heh.
Those pics have me LMAO.
Thank you !!
(I may borrow !)
Oh man, now I am totally busting a gut !
Got Sasha a couple and a half years ago. She's a lightweight when it comes to St. Bernards, but her power is unbelieveable. No dog for anyone over 50.
Chase says, "I'll pass on the walk in the rain......"
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